Vegan Potato Stew

Vegan Potato Stew - A Flavorful Indulgence for All Seasons

Vegan potato stew is more than just a simple dish; it's a warm embrace in a bowl, filled with aromas and joy. This versatile recipe is perfect not only during fasting periods but can be enjoyed anytime, as a main course or as a delicious side dish. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you'll create a comforting meal that will delight family and friends. Let's begin our culinary journey!

Preparation Time
- Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 35 minutes
- Total time: 50 minutes
- Servings: 4

Ingredients
- 1.5 kg of potatoes (choose starchy potatoes for better texture)
- 1 large onion (for a sweet and aromatic flavor)
- 2 kumato tomatoes (or regular tomatoes, preferably ripe)
- 100 ml tomato juice (for an extra touch of acidity)
- 1 teaspoon paprika (smoked, if you prefer a stronger flavor)
- 5 cloves of garlic (for an unmistakable aroma)
- 50 ml olive oil (a healthy ingredient rich in good fats)
- A pinch of tarragon (an aromatic herb that adds a unique taste)
- 3 sprigs of fresh thyme (or dried thyme if you don't have fresh)
- Half a bunch of parsley (for added freshness)
- Salt and pepper, to taste

Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: Approximately 350 kcal
- Protein: 7 g
- Fat: 10 g
- Carbohydrates: 58 g
- Fiber: 7 g

Step by Step: Preparing the Stew
1. Preparing the Potatoes: Start by peeling and washing the potatoes well. Cut them into uniform cubes, about 2-3 cm, for even cooking. This is an essential step to achieve the perfect texture.

2. Boiling the Potatoes: Place the potatoes in a large pot, cover them with cold water, add a teaspoon of salt and a pinch of pepper. Bring the water to a boil over medium heat and cook the potatoes for 20-25 minutes. Test them with a fork; they should be soft but not mushy.

3. Preparing the Sauce: In the meantime, wash the tomatoes and peel them. Cut them into small cubes. Peel the onion, garlic, and parsley. Chop the onion finely and slice the garlic thinly.

4. Sautéing the Onion: In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 5-7 minutes. It is important to stir it constantly to avoid burning.

5. Adding the Tomatoes: Once the onion is ready, add the diced tomatoes, paprika, tomato juice, chopped garlic, and half of the chopped parsley. Sprinkle salt and pepper to taste. Mix all the ingredients and cook for 2-3 minutes.

6. Adding Water: Add 100 ml of water to the sauce in the skillet and let it simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will allow the flavors to combine perfectly.

7. Combining with the Potatoes: When the potatoes are ready, drain them gently, but keep a little of the water. Add the sauce from the skillet over the potatoes, ensuring the remaining water covers almost all the potatoes. Bring everything to a boil.

8. Finalizing the Dish: Gently stir, taking care not to crush the potatoes. Remove from heat and sprinkle the remaining chopped parsley and fresh thyme leaves. If using dried thyme, add it now. Cover the pot and let it sit for 10-15 minutes for the flavors to meld.

Serving
Vegan potato stew is served warm, alongside pickles or a roasted pepper salad. These accompaniments are perfect for adding a fresh and crunchy note. A slice of fresh bread will complete the meal ideally.

Variations and Practical Tips
- Variations: You can add vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for a variety of colors and textures. You can also substitute tomatoes with canned tomato sauce for a more intense flavor.
- Secret Ingredient: A teaspoon of balsamic vinegar added to the tomato sauce can enhance the flavors and add a slight sweet-sour taste.
- Time-Saving Tips: If you have pre-peeled or frozen potatoes, you can skip the peeling and cutting step, saving precious time.

Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use sweet potatoes? Yes, sweet potatoes can be a delicious alternative, adding a sweet note to the dish.
- How can I adapt the recipe for vegans? This recipe is already vegan, but you can add plant-based proteins like chickpeas or beans to enrich it.
- What drinks pair well? Fresh lemonade or iced mint tea will perfectly complement these flavors.

Conclusion
Vegan potato stew is a simple yet spectacular recipe that combines accessible ingredients with a wide range of flavors. Whether you're preparing it for a family meal or a special occasion, this stew will surely impress. Don't forget to experiment with the ingredients and add a personal touch, as cooking is an art that flourishes when shared with love. Enjoy your meal!